Shutdown Threat Looms as US House Faces Impasse Over Funding Bill
In the US House of Representatives, a crucial vote is underway amid looming signs of a government shutdown beginning at midnight on Saturday, learnt Excel Magazine International.
Facing resistance from fellow hard-line Republicans, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is working to secure approval for a temporary 45-day respite, although the outcome is uncertain, particularly concerning a measure excluding aid to Ukraine.
According to reports, this potential government shutdown, the fourth in the past decade, could have widespread impacts, affecting everything from air travel to marriage licenses.
Also, numerous government employees may face furloughs without pay, and essential nutrition programs could be halted.
The situation has unfolded due to a hard-right revolt within the House, where Republicans hold a slim majority, while Democrats control the Senate by a single seat. Achieving consensus on spending bills to keep the government operational necessitates bipartisan agreement in both chambers, culminating at President Joe Biden’s desk.
On Saturday morning, Speaker McCarthy proposed a 45-day continuing resolution (CR) plan—a stop-gap to keep federal agencies operational until a new funding bill is agreed upon.
The CR, inclusive of disaster relief funding, excludes US foreign aid for Ukraine, a point of contention with Democrats.
Negotiations in the House have been hindered by a rebel faction of right-wing Republicans demanding substantial spending cuts, including a cessation of US funding for the war in Ukraine. This faction, backed by former President Donald Trump online, has impeded McCarthy’s attempts to advance necessary legislation.
Despite the possibility of seeking Democratic votes for a spending measure, McCarthy is cautious as such a move could trigger an effort by the rebel faction to oust him from his leadership role.
Additionally, McCarthy has rejected a short-term funding bill in the Senate, which includes $6 billion for Ukraine and $6 billion for disaster aid, potentially averting a prolonged shutdown. This Senate bill has bipartisan support, but the rebel faction remains adamant about a long-term spending bill that aligns with their priorities.
As the deadline approaches, tensions persist between House and Senate proposals, with the specter of a government shutdown looming large.
